Partner: Historic Northampton
Site: Grounds of Historic Northampton, 46 Bridge Street, Northampton, MA
2023 Dates: August 24 – September 3 (Thursdays and Fridays at 6:30pm; Saturdays and Sundays at 2pm & 6:30pm)
2024 Dates: Coming soon!
Tickets & More information: https://www.historicnorthampton.org/pulling-at-the-roots-plays-in-place.html 413-584-6011
Pulling at the Roots is a series of three short site-specific plays that guide the audience on a journey through three centuries of Northampton history. Set and staged in the restored historic barn and the grounds of Historic Northampton, the dramas of Pulling at the Roots examine the meaning of home and women’s search for autonomy and breathe the life of humanity into stories often flattened by history.
The 2023 run sold out and all three plays will return to Historic Northampton in the Summer of 2024.
Circling Suspicion
by Talya Kingston, directed by Brianna Sloane
featuring: Christine Stevens, Bill Stewart & Linda Tardif
In 1678, Mary Bliss Parsons is struggling with ongoing accusations of witchcraft.
Rose
by Jasmine Rochelle Goodspeed, directed by Brianna Sloane
Featuring: Tahmie Der and Matt Haas
In 1750, cleric Jonathan Edwards is confronted by the enslaved Rose.
The Optimist’s Razor
by Patrick Gabridge, directed by Brianna Sloane
Featuring: Myka Plunkett and Gabriel Levey
In 1842, abolitionists David and Lydia Maria Childs must make a decision that threatens their careers and marriage.
Costumes designed by Christina Beam. Sound Consultation by Amy Altadonna. Lighting Consultation by John Bechtold. Stage Management by Nikki Beck and Gabriel CiFuentes.
Content Advisory: the plays include themes of child loss and slavery and are recommended for adult audiences.
MEDIA COVERAGE
The Hampshire Daily Gazette published a great profile piece of the project. Check out the story.
Check out our radio interview on ArtBeat at 0:42:00. https://whmp.com/podcasts/making-a-difference-by-design/
And there was a preview piece in the Springfield Republican. Read the story.